The Art of Harmony: The MU|WA Junmai Sake Experience

In the world of sake, tradition and innovation often stand apart, but with MU|WA, Takara Sake brings them together in perfect harmony. Inspired by the Japanese words for “dream” and “harmony,” MU|WA represents a new era of sake, where the art of brewing meets the vibrant, bold spirit of California.

Crafted from just four simple ingredients—rice, water, koji, and yeast—MU|WA is a reflection of Takara’s commitment to excellence in the craft of sake brewing. This limited release Junmai sake is aged in bourbon barrels, a technique that infuses the naturally savory notes of the sake with an unexpected depth of fruit and rich complexity. The result is a flavor profile that speaks to both the tradition of sake and the unique, contemporary influences of its California home.

Our collaboration with Takara Sake spanned brand development, naming, messaging, and packaging design. The brand identity for MU|WA embraces a bold, modern approach, with a contemporary mark that draws inspiration from Japanese iconography and reinterprets it through a distinctly Californian lens. The use of clean, straightforward design elements reflects the simplicity and purity of sake itself while making a statement of modern luxury.
The packaging, crafted with premium details, features bold red and orange hues reminiscent of the Golden Gate Bridge. The high-quality paper stock, embossing, and hot stamp finishing give the bottle a tactile, luxurious feel, elevating the product’s premium nature. Every element, from the color palette to the finishing touches, communicates a sense of quality and craftsmanship befitting a luxury-tier product.

MU|WA stands as a testament to the perfect balance of tradition and innovation—where craftsmanship meets modern design, and where the heart of Japan merges with the spirit of California.